The foodie in your life may be one of the easiest people to please. Australia is littered with world-class restaurants and multi-cultural cuisines sure to satiate any food lover. When it comes to foodies, their love of eating extends far beyond the dish itself, it’s about the culture and experience. That’s why food experience gifts fill their cup as much as their stomach.
What makes a good food experience?
Every foodie values different things when it comes to a food experience. Of course, taste is up there. But there is also the presentation, the history of the cuisine, the environment, the people the meal is shared with, the service, and more. The best food experiences are ones that leave the eater feeling nourished – both in body and mind – leaving a mark for years to come.
Around Australia, there are many impressive memory-making food experiences for every palette. If you’re in the market for experience gifts for foodies, here are 10 of the best.
The Best Food Experience Gifts in Australia
01
Decadent Champagne Breakfast at Bitton Alexandria, NSW, $108 (usually $120) at RedBalloon
It’s five o’clock somewhere, right? Enjoy a decadent champagne breakfast for two, complete with a French-inspired menu of pastries and a main course, paired with tea, coffee and champagne. This is a must-have experience for any foodie.
02
Bei Bar and Bistro, Sydney NSW
In the heart of Sydney’s Darlinghurst lies this Mediterranean inspired gem. Using the best Australian ingredients and a few imported specialities, chef Felix Rutz and his wife Leigh Cholakos place a strong emphasis on seafood, as well as Italian and Australian wines. And if you’re a sweet tooth, you won’t be disappointed by the dessert menu.
03
Melbourne River Cruise with 4 Course Dinner, VIC, $185 at RedBalloon
Savour a luscious four course meal with beverages while on a cruise along the Yarra river. Watch as the city comes alive at night while floating on the iconic waterway.
04
Yarra Valley Wine and Food Tour at Yering Station, VIC, from $250 at TripAdvisor
Bask in rural Victoria away from the city on this wine and food tour of the region’s best wineries. Handpicked by your guide, you will sample delectable wines, and enjoy lunch and a cheese tasting at De Bortoli Winery.
05
Adelaide Central Market Lunch Tour, SA, $168 at Experience Oz
Satisfy your culinary senses with this guided tour of the iconic Adelaide Central Markets. This unique gourmet food experience will see you wander the grounds and meet passionate artisan food producers, taste delicious nibbles, and discover the history of this famous Australian culinary market.
06
Fremantle Lunch Cruise, WA, from $110 for 2 at Viator
Glide leisurely along Swan River while feasting on a buffet of delectable food and a complementary drink. Delight your palette as you take in the views of Perth’s waterfront suburbs, including the historic port city of Fremantle and yacht clubs.
07
Small-Group Gin Masterclass, QLD, from $180 at Viator
In this two hour class taught by a master distiller, you will learn all about gin in an intimate group and distill a 500ml bottle of your very own gin. At the end, choose your botanical and create and taste your own flavour to take home.
08
High Cheese and Chocolate Experience, TAS, $98 at RedBalloon
Calling all cheese lovers. Feed your addiction with this mouthwatering cheese experience at Coal River Farm. Paired with a selection of handmade chocolates and your choice of wine, beer, or hot beverage, feast upon an impressive spread with a gorgeous backdrop.
09
Opl Cocktail Bar Brunch at Our Place on London, ACT, from $70 (usually $80) at Groupon
Bottomless mimosas, lager, wine and flutes, and a cocktail on arrival are just the beginning of this shared feast. Take your friends and fill your cup – literally and figuratively – and stomach in the process.
10
Darwin Harbour Sunset Buffet Dinner Cruise, NT, $130 at Experience Oz
Feast on fresh seafood while basking in the Darwin sunset on this buffet dinner cruise. The territory-style buffet is complete with locally-caught seafood and drinks available to purchase; the experience is enhanced by the informative captain’s commentary about the gorgeous region.
